TOWARDS OPTIMAL PROJECT MANAGEMENT: INFLUENCE OF MONITORING AND EVALUATION PRACTICES ON PROJECT OUTCOMES IN HIV SERVICE PROVISION IN KENYA

Objective: Quality healthcare service provision is crucial for achieving Sustainable Development Goal 3 on universal health and well-being. However, a noticeable gap exists in the literature regarding the essential role of Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) practices in planning, data collection, reporting, and results dissemination of Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) services. The objective was to investigate extent to which the perceptions of healthcare workers influence on M&E practices. Theoretical Framework: The program theory was applied as it provides a framework for planning, implementation, and evaluation of interventions by identifying the pathways through which these outcomes are achieved. A retrospective cross-sectional survey design was used as it leverages complementary methodologies. The high consensus levels highlighted the universality of this perspective within the healthcare community. A moderate positive correlation and a significant relationship between the two variables was observed. Theoretically, it showed how the perceived contribution of M&E offers a conceptual framework for analyzing and evaluating interventions toward project effectiveness. Results and Discussion: Variations in healthcare infrastructure, resources, and patient demographics across regions could influence the applicability of the results. The practical, methodological and theoretical implications of this research provide insights into how the results can be applied. Research Implications: This study contributes to the literature through practical contributions by identifying progress and challenges throughout the healthcare system to provide. Originality/Value: The relevance and value of this research are evidenced by guiding stakeholders, project managers and implementers in improving their M&E systems, allowing for better resource mobilization, and planning, by documenting and replicating successful interventions.